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Description
Lepuropetalon Spathulatum, also known as the spoonleaf sundew, is a carnivorous plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Droseraceae family and is a perennial herb with a small rosette of leaves that grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The leaves are covered in sticky hairs that trap insects, which the plant then digests for nutrients. The flowers are small and white, growing on a thin stem up to 15 cm tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Lepuropetalon |
Appearance
The spoonleaf sundew has small, spoon-shaped leaves with long, sticky hairs that resemble tentacles. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern and are green in color. The flowers of the Lepuropetalon Spathulatum are small and white, growing on a thin stem up to 15 cm tall. The plant can grow up to 10 cm in height and 5 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
The Lepuropetalon Spathulatum requires moist, well-draining soil with a pH between 4 and 6. It should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight and should be kept in temperatures between 21°C and 29°C. Fertilization is not necessary, as the plant gets its nutrients from the insects it traps. The plant is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lepuropetalon Spathulatum is susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in soil that does not drain well. It may also be attacked by spider mites or aphids, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Lepuropetalon Spathulatum is native to South Africa and is found in wet, sandy areas such as stream banks and seepage areas. It is a carnivorous plant and uses its sticky leaves to trap and digest insects for nutrients.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Lepuropetalon Spathulatum?
A: The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does the Lepuropetalon Spathulatum require fertilization?
A: No, the plant does not require fertilization as it gets its nutrients from the insects it traps.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Lepuropetalon Spathulatum?
A: The plant is hardy in zones 9-11.
Q: What type of soil does the Lepuropetalon Spathulatum prefer?
A: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil with a pH between 4 and 6.
Related Plants
- Drosera capensis
- Drosera spatulata
- Drosera filiformis
- Drosera intermedia
References
- “Lepuropetalon Spathulatum.” The Plant List, Version 1.1, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, 2013.
- “Lepuropetalon Spathulatum.” International Carnivorous Plant Society, www.carnivorousplants.org/cp/Lepuropetalon/spathulatum.
- “Spoonleaf Sundew (Lepuropetalon Spathulatum).” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/spoonleaf-sundew/lepuropetalon-spathulatum.htm.
